Francis Marion National Forest. Armed with hipwaders, dip nets, and our field guides, we
entered the wetland. Along with our dip nets, there were minnow traps set out by the previous
lab for us to check. During our time at Francis Marion, we were able to find atleast 20 salamanders.
After careful observation of the various species, were able to determine that we had mole salamanders
(Ambystoma talpoideum) as well as red-spotted newts (Notophthalmus viridescens). Below is a picture
of the mole salamanders that we found.
One of the salamanders was pregnant which was very interesting to see. This salamander is pictured and clearly has a larger belly. Mole salamanders are usually 3-4 inches in length. The water that we found the salamanders in was a bit chilly with very little movement. Mole salamanders are burrowers but can also be found under logs in damp areas. We were able to identify them as mole salamanders due to their prominent costal grooves and the larger head and legs. These salamanders have five toes on each hind foot and four toes on each front foot. Overall the field trip was a success. It was very nice to be able to observe live salamanders in their habitat rather than studying them in the lab.
(Alexis Kocher, SC)
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